Prologue
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The room was dark except for a small glow radiating from two red metal lanterns. The four high school students sat on the wooden floor, which was coated in a light film of dust and stains from centuries past. The dampness in the historic home’s walls filled the air with a pungent moldy odor that mixed with the overwhelming ashy scent from the large stone fireplace. Two girls sat facing each other anxiously; “You ready?” Caroline asked, raising her eyebrows at Rebecca.
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“God this is sooo creepy! I guess... let’s just get started.” She shuddered as shivers ran down her back.
The two girls began by crossing their arms across their chests, then unfolded them and clapped their hands together. Then they crossed each hand, one at a time, and slapped each other’s hands together, followed by this motion again with the opposite hand. While doing this, they sang the old rhyme,
“Miss Mary Mack Mack Mack
All dressed in black, black, black
With silver buttons, buttons, buttons
All down her back, back, bah—”
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Corey, Rebecca’s boyfriend, abruptly interrupted the rhyme, “Holy crap, do you guys hear that?!” he exclaimed nervously as his eyes darted around the room, seeking for something he couldn’t visibly see lying deep in the shadows of the old house.
Main Characters
Mary Mack, the legend & true love
A beautiful tragedy. Once a beautiful and brave young woman, Mary lived the rest of life as a recluse, overwhelmed with grief after the mysterious disappearance of her fiancé during battle in 19th century. Mary refuses to leave her home and find peace until she understands what happened to Benjamin and can be reunited with him.
Anna Ipswich, the protagonist & champion
The unexpected heroin. Anna is a Seventeen-year-old student at Cannon Falls High School who interns for father's architecture and design firm. Anna is intelligent, loyal, kind and doesn't tolerate bullies. Anna's newly found abilities will demonstrate the strength and tenacity she never knew she had and unearth some family secrets.
Boston Tate, the long-term
crush
Anna's long-term crush who is also Cannon Falls' star running back. Boston is strong, decent, and will prove to be Anna's biggest fan and a true partner. Boston will be everything that Anna's needs as she learns to handle her newly found abilities.
Benjamin Watts, the hero & the mystery
Mary's fiancé and Captain in the Union Army. He was the epitome of the young, distinguished, very handsome Civil War soldier that Hollywood liked to portray in its movies. He disappeared during the battle of Gettysburg succumbing to his desire to take any mission to win the war!
Abbey, best friend & kindred
spirit
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Sassy, loyal, and would do anything for Anna. Abbey had always been ambitious, a girl who was not afraid of anything. Naturally self-assured, she always pushes Anna to be more confident. Abbey will do anything to help Anna solve the mystery.
Jay, the brother Anna never had
Jay has known Anna since they were in kindergarten and is the brother that Anna never had. Jay turns heads at school with his golden-brown complexion, chiseled jaw, charismatic and trustworthy attitude. He will always be a ride or die friend to Anna and support Anna in any way to help her solve the mystery.
Brianna, the villain
Lead villain and typical mean girl. Brianna and her pack Briann's wannabes don’t normally speak to anyone outside of their circle. Brianna wants Boston for herself and will stop at nothing to ensure that Anna's relationship with Boston freezes over and she does not remain a permanent fixture in their "circle".
